Col657

I was thinking about enlisting before college, to mature and decide whether I want the military as a career. Then, I'd apply to a regular college or the naval academy. If I enlist, hate it, and want to go to a regular college for something, how will enlisting affect the college admissions process?
to a place like Hopkins?
University of Pittsburgh?
Will being 21 and just applying hurt me when private, selective schools look at my app?

PuraVida90

Col, I am separating from the AF in about a month. I applied to UChicago and Carnegie Mellon (won't hear back until early May) so I'll have a better idea of the value of the "veteran" status then. Being undecided about joining the military, one word of advice is to enlist for the shortest amount of time possible! The AF offers 4 and 6 year contracts, and the recruiter will try his best make you sign up for 6. It is not worth it! Also, you will probably want to take classes while you are in. People will encourage you to go to "AMU" or some other useless online college. Do whatever you can to go to the best local campus. Few of your peers will have similiar aspirations (Hopkins quality school) and more likely want to drink or play video games. If you can get into a top school right now I would recommend that over enlisting first. I couldn't, but I spent much of my free time with my nose in a textbook and I feel pretty optimistic about the future. I enlisted and, using kinder terms, it wasn't for me. I was lucky and able to separate before my contract is up, I enlisted a month after my 18th and turn 21 in July, but don't count on a similiar situation--the stars aligned for me.

In short, if you choose to enlist, start school ASAP. I'll be half way through my sophomore year by the time I begin full-time this fall. I should be able to graduate in under 3 years, so while I will be a bit older than my peers, I won't be a geezer. Also, choose a few schools you really want to attend and look at their transfer requirements. I really wanted to apply to the engineering schools at GTech and Michigan, but they have quite a few pre-reqs I couldn't meet.

Any specific questions feel free to ask.

dmb1218

I did six years in the Marine Corps and am starting at Dartmouth in the fall. The Naval Academy option can be sought out during your enlistment, but I think you can no longer apply after 22 or 23 (would have to look it back up). If you want a detailed answer feel free to PM me.

quentsy

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MAG734

What PuraVida suggests is perfect advice and I certainly consider it bittersweet. There are many advantages to joining the military, especially if said college is out of state or happens to qualify for the yellow ribbon program. The post 9/11 GI Bill option provides phenomenal opportunities to offset or eliminate any debt you may incur for tuition so that's definitely cool. I would also advise the shortest term... I tried the military for three.. almost four years and realized it wasn't working. The mentality of your peers will make you feel extremely aloof and isolated if your focus is more on studies rather than partying. The military allows you to build great bonds, but it seems like a giant fraternity. If I could give any advice if you do join, start school ASAP! knock those pre-reqs out and shed the best light on yourself possible. I finished my pre-reqs with university of Michigan engineering in mind and just put my application in a couple months ago. I'm definitely nervous, but while writing and compiling I felt very proud of my accomplishments. Good luck with whichever choice you decide on and if you have questions dont hesitate to ask!